Concrete firm creates jobs in Westmeath

Forty-one new jobs have been announced in Co Westmeath.

Irish concrete products manufactuer Shay Murtagh Precast is investing €3m in new technology at its Mullingar operation.

The Jobs Minister Richard Bruton has welcomed the news, saying "creating a powerful engine of indigenous, export-focused companies" is a central part of the Government's plan for jobs and growth.

Mr Bruton said: "Manufacturing must be a particular focus as we seek to create the jobs we need, and last week we announced the establishment of a manufacturing development forum which will report back within six months on specific measures which we can take to develop this sector."

Ciaran Murtagh Managing Director of Shay Murtagh Precast added: "The tunnel infrastructure sector has been a key area of focus for our company over the last number of years and we are delighted to be in a position today where we have not only created 41 new jobs, but more importantly secured the jobs of our existing 75 employees.

"We have invested a lot of energy in a strategic and focused expansion into the UK Infrastructure market. This solid expansion plan has provided our company with a platform for the future and we look forward to continued support from Enterprise Ireland in our ongoing pursuit of new and exciting opportunities."